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China Hikes Penalties on Illegal Coal Mining

Date:27-Jan-05Country: CHINA

The rush to produce coal for an economy that expanded 9.5 percent in 2004 has led miners to re-open old mines or dig perilously close to existing shafts.

Fines for illegal mining would rise by up to six times, with the penalty for sales from illegal operations rising to a maximum of 30,000 yuan ($3,625), the National Development and Reform Commission said in a statement posted on its Web site (www.sdpc.gov.cn).

The new regulations take effect this week, or 30 days after the statement's issue date on Dec. 27, 2004.

To get an operating licence, miners must maintain capital of at least 50 million yuan and storage space of over 20,000 square metres.